Top runs and races of fall

Hit the ground running with these mini-runs and themed races

While we might prefer to collectively chant “bring on the turkey!” this time of year, in the back of our heads there exists a tiny voice telling us we might want to consider a workout. Although most of the major marathons take off through the spring months, fall welcomes its own slew of mini-runs and themed races.

Whether you’re looking for a spirited 5K with a beer garden at the finish or you're serious about training for a longer course, fall is the perfect season to hit the ground running.

Discover the top fall races in San Diego

Silver Stand Half Marathon – November 17

Stretching from Coronado to Imperial Beach, the 14th Annual Silver Stand Half Marathon is one of the most touted races this time of year. The course captures views of the big blue and is open to runners, walkers, skaters, hand cycles and wheelchairs with varied start times for each. Extra bonuses include a virtual goodie bag, continental breakfast, beer garden, live entertainment along the course, race photos and a finisher medal. A 5K option starts and finishes at the Imperial Beach Pier Plaza. New this year, they’re offering a 10-mile option with all the same perks as the half-marathon. For more information, visit kozevents.com.

Fit Foodie Race – November 23

The San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival may have a reputation for being overly-indulgent in all things booze and grub. But this year, they’re changing their tune and adding in the Fit Foodie Run to the schedule of events. Along with the dash through San Diego, participants will enjoy tastings from Stella Artois and Cupcake Vineyards, get discounted tickets to the festival, watch celebrity chef demos, check out Core Power Yoga demonstrations and meet celebrity trainer Kristin McGee and the editors of “Cooking Light” and “Health Magazine.” This 5K around the San Diego Waterfront benefits the Big Brothers and Sisters of San Diego County. For more information, visit sandiegowineclassic.com

O’Side Turkey Trot – November 28

Start your Thanksgiving morning off with this five-mile walk or run, a 5K or a one-mile kid’s race. This classic North County tradition boasts a scenic course, encourages outrageous and festive costumes and welcomes a spirited atmosphere to “move your feet before you eat.” 9,000 participants started their holiday on the right foot last year; be part of the gobble-gobble family-fun this year that includes live music at the finish line, near Oceanside Pier. The Turkey Trot proudly benefits Oceanside schools and charities. For more information, visit osideturkeytrot.com.

Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk – November 28

Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk helps to serve more than 1.7 million meals to those in need, so you can feel good about every stride you take towards the finish line. Setting off on Thanksgiving morning, runners will head for the picturesque Balboa Park. This 12th annual event brings 10,000 out to raise awareness of the hunger in San Diego. Your registration is an investment in the future of our city. For more information, visit neighbor.org

United Run for the Hungry – November 28

This Thanksgiving day event sets itself apart from the rest as the only downtown race in San Diego. Hit the pavement in the Gaslamp and East Village for a 10K run or 5K run/walk the morning before you feast. Proceeds benefit the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and Foodmobile. Annually, the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank distributes food for more than 10 million meals. Foodmobile delivers more than 28,000 hot meals to the elderly and homebound. Lace up those shoes and bring some canned goods with you to show how San Diego cares. New this year, head to the beer garden afterwards for Manzanita Brewing Company and Fat Cat Beers. For more information, visit unitedrunforthehungry.org.

Temecula Turkey Trot 5K, 10K – November 30

Temecula Wine Country isn’t all just wine and cheese. The gorgeous landscaping sets the stage for an ideal 5K or 10K as part of the Temecula Turkey Trot. The Trot’s 5K and 10K both start and finish at Cougar Vineyard & Winery. Once you’ve crossed the finish line, runners will enjoy a free wine tasting at Cougar and discounted tastings at neighboring wineries. Participants are encouraged to raise funds for the Sun Strides Foundation which supports energy projects in East Africa. Race off that turkey dinner and have an up-close opportunity to explore De Portola Road, Monte De Oro and Camino Del Vino’s rolling hills. For more information, visit sunstrides.org.